Prime Minister Joseph Muscat and Leader of the Opposition Simon Busuttil both explained the importance of finding balance with the upcoming division of MEPA.

The Prime Minister and Opposition Leader were speaking at the Annual General Meeting of the Malta Developers Association (MDA).Dr Muscat stressed however, that balance should not come at the expense of taking decisions. He is encouraged by the change in attitude by the development sector, stating that is has changed over the two years since he was elected, from being focused on quantity, turning to quality.

Dr Muscat said that the MDA is one of a few local organisations that has increased its membership in recent years. "The MDA has people with clear ideas".

"One of the most important things we have achieved has been helping the property sector back onto its feet". 

Dr Muscat mentioned incentives created that had helped the sector, including that of the tax exemption for first time buyers

Opposition Leader Simon Busuttil stressed that developers deal with one of Malta's most precious and rare resources, land, with the Prime Minister later giving the same statement.

"You influence how our land is developed and used. Development also has a huge economic, social and environmental impact. I want the PN to be a party of balance. We must also respect the land for today's generations as well as for those generations to come. Over the past years there hasn't been much flexibility by the PN in this sector and not enough consultations were made. My aim is to move forward with more direct consultations and flexibility," Dr Busuttil said.

Turning to the Strategic Plan for Environment and Development (SPED), Dr Busuttil stressed its importance, stating that it could affect this sector for many years to come. "If a mistake is made, it could effect this sector for the next 20 years. Dr Muscat said he believes in the SPED proposals however is open to working with the PN on SPED.

Dr Busuttil said he wants to build a relationship with this sector based on 3 pillars; Consultation, flexibility and balance.

Speaking at the event, MDA President Sandro Chetcuti said that the association, in four years, has grown from 60 members to 250.

President of the MDA Sandro Chetcuti emphasised that the MDA works passionately without any agenda. He spoke about the Citizenship scheme, stating that it is an important mechanism that brings  foreigners to Malta, thus bringing investment.  

"Our political leaders have always kept our citizens united. We have a great country, a people overflowing with values. I believe good times are ahead and I urge you to work hard and raise the level of quality".

"We (the MDA) are working with passion. We are united. We came together to work and matured to help the industry as well as society in general".

"We must be professional and those who are not professional and responsible will not find our support".